Of all the exciting stuff you found this weekend, the baby turtle is my favorite because I had half-way convinced myself that our box turtles were too scarce and scattered now to find each other and mate, and that therefore our box turtle population was on a slow road to extirpation. Apparently not! Also may have something to do with coyotes, fishers and bobcats predating on e.g. raccoons and skunks that love to dig up turtle eggs.
A-HA! Would not surprise me. Last year they invaded and the skies were full. Birds learn quickly; I remember how they swung into action years ago when the spongy moths showed up.
Of all the exciting stuff you found this weekend, the baby turtle is my favorite because I had half-way convinced myself that our box turtles were too scarce and scattered now to find each other and mate, and that therefore our box turtle population was on a slow road to extirpation. Apparently not! Also may have something to do with coyotes, fishers and bobcats predating on e.g. raccoons and skunks that love to dig up turtle eggs.
"Whatever they're up to, it's literally everywhere." Spotted lanternfly nymphs, perhaps? See https://cals.cornell.edu/new-york-state-integrated-pest-management/outreach-education/whats-bugging-you/spotted-lanternfly/spotted-lanternfly-biology-and-lifecycle#lifecycle
A-HA! Would not surprise me. Last year they invaded and the skies were full. Birds learn quickly; I remember how they swung into action years ago when the spongy moths showed up.